Celebrating fifteen years of causing chaos, destruction and raging like Norse Motherfuckiers across the globe and the root of it all is a catalogue of most excellent records and live shows. The Good The Bad And The Zugly have got the lot and to celebrate they’ve released another album choc-o-bloc with bangers.
satirical know-it-all attitude, Lyrics about god knows what and other things I’m still trying to decifer their debut album so fuck knows when I’ll make sense of this one.
What is this Decade of Regression you ask? well, let me introduce you to what the band considers to be their worst record thus far, A collection of B-songs that have never made the list when dropping their previous records. This album is nothing of the sort and I’m sure tongues were firmly in cheeks when suggesting so. the first glimpse was ‘Walk Around The Porridge’ which I’m reliably informed is a Norweigan term for beat around the bush and it’s a belter. When you dig into this album if you’re new to the band (Which is fine) turn the fuckin stereo up and when you’ve done that turn it up a little more. There sitting comfortably then stand and crack open a beer and give themselves up for Zugly because these tunes demand it. Longterm fans will be already aware of the band’s steadfast uncompromising punk rock hardcore attitude and will know that the band are incapable of making bad albums.
Whilst you’re waiting for Turbonegro to wake from their hiatus coma or Gluecifer to make a new record the GBZ has stolen a march to the crown of Scandi punk rock and seem incapable of putting afoot wrong and this is no exception regardless of the press blurb this record rocks like a mofo make no mistake about it from the opening chords to the final thrashing finale GBZ are on it.
You have the solid Rock of ‘Krenk It Up’ channelling DC with some mega Riff-a-Rama or the ripping ‘Clssic Oslo Attitude’ thats the music equivelant to a punch on the nose. ‘A Couple Of Dudes’ is where Turbonegro would be if they were still making music. But my pick o fthe pack is the riot that is ‘Going Postal’ with its gang vocals that even the most drunk dude in the room can get involved with.
Stream it if you have to but buy it on record for the ultimate experience and if they roll into a town near you don’t hesitate to go – they’ll blow your mind its that simple – All hail the Zuglys they rock like fuck! Buy IT!
Welcome to the singles club, we’ve not had many sittings recently probably due to the Christmas period but they’ve started to trickle in and when we had a few exciting tunes fly in we had to fire up the jukebox and get some 45″ RPM action going.
First up is a mighty fine 7” split for groups LJ & The Sleeze (Richmond, VA) and Killer Hearts (Houston, TX).
LJ & The Sleeze / Killer Hearts – Split (Eight Ball Record$) The 2 song split features the first new tune since Killer Hearts Debut LP was released last year (one we certainly championed here) ‘Skintight Electric’ was truly all killer and absolutely no filler. ‘High Temptress’ is more of the same with manic, rabid rock and roll resplendent with its chest-beating & frantic tempo, those Dead Boys inspired solos and catchy choruses that make you want to sling down a yard of ale before running through a brick wall – great stuff.
LJ & The Sleeze’s side of the split holds the newly redone ‘I’m Bad’, off of their LP ‘Stay Sleezy’, giving in-your-face punk attitude aplenty. It’s got a swagger and a hook that you won’t be able to free from your head, nor would you want to. Menacing and snotty with just enough snarling venom to make you want to root through your sister’s purse to fund this record. Exactly how a split should be done – Get on it Here it’s out in the middle of March so be sure to keep that link locked down – you won’t regret it.
Totally Slow – ‘The Lost Art of Shutting Up’ ( Refresh Records) Another new one on us comes out off their new album ‘Casual Drag’ its indie punk rock with a great hook and a foot in the past it’s got a tonne of energy like melodic punk of so-cal punks a really good earworm that just gets better the more you hear it.
I love the breakdown and want to hear more. Which is the whole original point of a 45″ single right? I dove into the back catalogue and am currently loving ‘Casual Drag’. Pick it up Here
These Arms Are Snakes – ‘Camera Shy’ (Suicide Squeeze Records) US hardcore/mathrock band These Arms Are Snakes have today announced a new rarities release called ‘Duct Tape & Shivering Crows’ which will be released April 15th via Suicide Squeeze Records.
Formed from the ashes of legendary noise bands Botch and Killsadie, These Arms Are Snakes had a 7-year run in the early 2000s and released three albums and many Eps and splits, toured relentlessly, before splitting in 2009.
Described rather wonderfully as a ‘synth-infused noise rock, bad-trip psychedelia, flamboyant proto-metal boogie, and unhinged basement-show hardcore,’ These Arms Are Snakes reformed for some reunion gigs in 2021 and now have this rarities comp
The Good The Bad And The Zugly – ‘One Dimensional Man’ (Fysisk Format) Any day you get to head a new GBATZ tune is a great fucking day so today must be fanfuckingtastic seeing as two of them have shown up. The first earworms from their new Covid produced album is here. ‘Nostradumbass’ is a huge melodic masterclass. Sure it’s the B side but its got a poptastic lick and a chorus that could have been lifted from Abba.
Now the A-side is loud and has a thumping rhythm and the hook is classic Turbonegro-tastic to boot right out of that ballpark. It’ll take a while to properly burrow down and lay its musical explosions that will go off for weeks to come but you know they’re in there. Bring on that damn album and bring it on now. Essential purchase! Here
The Blue Carpet Band – The Slow Death Of Camden (Bomber Music) dealing with the gentrification and all the changes happening on the once rock n’ roll streets of Camden Town. Major brands taking over and the loss of iconic venues and drinking places have erased the edginess and excitement. The rock’n’roll bandits are all gone. Pretty much the same thing happened in Soho and Wardour St and I guess the LES of Manhattan and St Marks and Time Sq as well as a host of other places to boot. Mores the pitty but these times they are a-changing but Rock and Roll will never die don’t you go thinking otherwise.
The Blue Carpet Band are true Rock and Rollers and this is another slice of sleazy Rock n Roll. Check it out – you won’t regret it. With a new album on the way 2022 is shaping up nicely. Buy Here
Electric Boys – ‘Favorite Hello, Worst Goodbye’ (Mighty Music) Another new song recorded by these hard rockin’ Swedes during the “Ups!de Down” sessions. The first one, “Favorite Hello, Worst Goodbye” is out on digital platforms now.
Claiming the song is made up using Cheap Tricks DNA is a big call but it isn’t a million miles from the mark. The Electric Boys play solid hard rock n roll and do it well. Conny Bloom rallies his troops through this meaty rocker and slides some neat fretwork. Fans will lick it up no doubt it’ll be interesting to hear more of this new material
Supera Morza – ‘I’m Working It Out’ (Bad Apple Music Group) The band’s third single sees Supera Morza, ‘Working It Out’ hailing from Manchester these spikey individuals play uncompromising punk rock. It’s possibly in the same ballpark as Blackwater and Cabbage in its gritty, angular post-punk attack with melody and aggression. Two-and-a-half minutes of uncompromising shit or bust anarchic grunge. Hailed as one of Manchester’s most exciting prospects expect to hear and see a lot more of these guys. The previous singles ‘Roadkill’ which had similarities to Nirvana pre ‘Nevermind’ (which isn’t a bad thing either) and my personal favourite the frantic Scrubber. Check them out via Facebook and Spotify
Fontains D.C – ‘I Love You’ (Partisan Records) Taken from the band’s forthcoming album ‘Skinty Fia’ due in April. A slow-burning, brooding and intense love song the track sees the band offer up a dark insight into what they’ve been up to during lockdown. It follows hot on the heels of ‘Jackie Down The Line’. Check out the video here.
Stacy Crowne had their single reviewed here last year but have since shot a video for the B side of their cover of Golden Earrings ‘Radar Love’ check out the lively ‘Dead Of Night’ Get it while it’s hot Here
With a slew of singles being dropped down the RPM HQ chimney this past week, it seemed only fair to reconvene the Singles Club before the Christmas shutdown. What a bunch of bangers they are no wonder Santa had them on the Sleigh stereo
Rich Ragany and the Digressions – ‘December In My Heart’ (self Release) Written as a dare Rags penned this chirpy little ditty for yuletide. It might be missing some sleigh bells and children singing but apart from that, I think it’s fair to say Rags can collect on the dare if any wager was laid down.
It’s like a glass of mulled wine around the old campfire and a cheeky wink to absent friends as we toast goodbye to another difficult year and look forward to what’s ahead. It’s got one foot in the traditional Slade camp and one in that Ragany style he’s carving out for himself. Get the eggnog on my loves and I’ll fetch the snowballs its Christmas!!!
The Dogmatics – ‘Automat Kalashnikov’ (Rum Bar Records) Always a good reason to open up the Singles Club when Rum Bar Drops a new tune especially when it’s from the epic Dogmatics. A thumping barroom brawler of a tune it is too. The best news isn’t this single seeping out into the Christmas cheer but it’s from a new full-length album due in the new year.
But wait the title track isn’t even the best song on the single, nope that award goes to the primitive, unoriginal but totally awesome ‘You Say’ which is to be fair what some might call a Total Banger of a snotty 77 slice of punk rock n roll.
Rob Moss- ‘A Rocket Ship To You’ (Self Release) A brand new two tracks from Rob sees him lurch from the modern punk rock mixed with a little dash of cool Goth rock on the lead track. With a pocket full of energy the song fils the room with a cool backbeat that’s part bla bla bla era Iggy mixed with a little Eldrich or even Bowie after several plays. A really impressive tune. The second track is in a similar vein maybe with added Alice Cooper as the track entitled ‘Two Slices Of Bread’ is laid back and darker with some excellent guitar work courtesy of Sal Baglio. Pick it up from Bandcamp Here
Matty James Cassidy – ‘Extra Souls EP’ (Self Release) Crack open a bottle and turn up the stereo because Matty James Cassidy is having a knees up. The acoustic-driven ‘Make It Out Alive’ is a breezy upbeat bit of Rock and Roll. There are four tracks on offer here and second up is the bluesy acoustic rambling ‘Rosary’ but the beautiful piano ballad that is ‘Down On My Luck’ is simple but oh so effective from the excellent harmonica wheeze to the introduction of the brushed snare its a really impressive tune.
Not sure how we missed this one but I’m glad I stumbled across it now. It might be only the four tunes but when they sound this good it’s all gravy. Check it out Here
The Good The Bad And The Zugly – ‘Nostradumbass’ (Frysk Format) Things are certainly hotting up for what’s to come musically in 2022 none more so than waiting for a new GBATZ record to drop. This is the third slice of new music from the Oslo legends and it’s just what the doctor ordered. It’s loud, melodic and full of charm.
lifted from the band’s new album ‘Research and Destroy’ I can’t get enough of their tunes. Its got a great hook and those gang vocals are so aggressive but subtle its Deathpunk to the end baby and RPM loves it
More Kicks – ‘Christmas In Prison’ (Self Release) Ah seasons greetings me hearties, this is one of those festive bangers from the heartwarming lyrics and the cotton-picking guitar all that’smissing is the sleigh bells. Oh, the joy I hear you call. Seemingly incapable of penning a shite song you should head over to the link and put this cracker on your festive playlist. Getoutofhere you scoundrels
Diamond Dogs – ‘Rocket Richochet’ (Sound Pollution) Not a Christmas tune but it’s got that honking keyboard and a sleazy backbeat as Sulo and the boys n gals guide you through a retro rockin’ banger. From their soon-to-be-released double album that’s full of top tunes, this is just an appetite wetter so to speak and it does a jolly good job too. Of course the playing is top-notch on what is a most excellent little rocker hell it’s got handclaps backing girls on the, oh oh’s and the only thing it’s missing is a little cowbell.
The Peppermint Kicks – ‘It’s a Peppermint Christmas’ (Rum Bar Records) Yeah baby! Of course Rum Bar Records knows how to parteee I bet they throw the best parties and that’s a fact. This is how a Crimbo tune should Rock. Plenty of Roll and no pretenses just having a good time by turning up the amps and rocking out! Cheers guys you nailed it! Glockenspeil, Oboe, Strings, Flute, Mellotron, Sleighbell, Handclaps, Piano and loud guitars Hell, I bet there’s a kitchen sink in here as well.
The Erotics – ‘Hungover At Christmas’ (Self Release) the more the merrier folks this time it’s the turn of those sleazy Noo Yawk types The Erotics. Packing a punch its like the Christmas grinch learned how to pick a tune on his stolen guitar as he wakes up from his drinking binge and is looking for something to play. Not a sleigh bell in sight nor a ho ho ho but plenty of hungover attitude from Mike Trash and the gang.
But once you’ve shaken off the bar humbug of the lead track you have the grooving ‘Spiders And Snakes’ punching you to pour another and say cheers for the sleazy punk n roll that is The Erotics God bless em one and all. Get it Here
The Dirty Truckers – ‘3 Shots EP’ (Rum Bar Records) Saddle up to the bar with The Dirty Truckers celebrated heart-worn sleeve songwriting, delivering a sonic wall of ’70s FM thunder welded by earnest blue-collar rock n’ roll that’s a pretty spot-on description of what to expect from this band. The Truckers have a wonderful tone on those there guitars and following in a fine tradition of Roots rockers like Mellencamp and a tougher Westerberg they leave you feeling warm and fuzzy in a nice way but with enough dirt and rough ass rock n roll under the hood.
These three songs will testify. ‘Remember One’ being the pick of the bunch with a tonne of youthful energy it’s a rocker that won’t fail to get your toes tapping. Three gems to be fair that are Free at the link for Gawd’s sake, what more do you need to know? Get involved kids its only Rock n Roll whats the worst that could happen?
Sick Thoughts – ‘Poor Boys’ b/w ‘Drug Rock’ (Goodbye Boozy Records) Punk as fuck! ‘Poor Boys’ is a roller coaster ride of buzzsaw guitar riffs that are sharp and in yer face and a guitar solo that would rival Angus Young at his best. Sick Thoughts’ massive discography – easily amassing to 20-something records is as impressive as it looks for this one man band and if you’re looking for sleazy, spit-riddled punk rock ‘n’ roll then my work here is done. Awesome adrenaline rush Punk Rock and Roll. BUY THE RECORD: Bandcamp Here / Big cartel Here
The Hip Priests / The Good The Bad And The Zugly – Split (Fysisk format) ‘Can’t Abide With Me’ is offered up to the Gods Of Rock and Roll from the champions of the 7″ single The Hip Priests. But this is no ordinary 7″ for it is a split with those Loons from Scandinavia who offer up the equally good ‘Going Postal’.
It’s been a while but having The Hip Priests deliver a single is when you know we can do this and the world is in a good (bad) place. I think Von Cruz speaks for us all in these fucked up times. When bands do split releases then The Hip Priests are a sure-fire benchmark of quality releasing new tunes every time and usually better than the last. Teaming up with Zugly for what will be a must-own collectors nugget of the future as both bands deliver absolute bangers. the single of the Week? The single of the Fuckin’ month more like – snooze you lose. Pick it up via The Spasm Gang if you join that is or from the label Here Or Bandcamp from the Zuglys Here
Jackson Reid Briggs & The Heaters – Been Waiting’ (Legless) When a band is getting released on LEgless such is their reputation for delivering top notch Rock N Roll it’s a no brainer we’re going to dig deep. Never heard of them until now but this Melbourne punk rock band have got a right earworm on their hands. IT buries itself in and like an attitude-drenched Fall track it takes a few plays to take hold but once in it’s safe to investigate further see what else they offer. Exactly what a single supposed to do right? Right! Buy Here
Indonesian Junk – ‘One More Try’ (Rum Bar Records) Taken from the forthcoming new album ‘Living In A Nightmare’ due out March 19th on Rum Bar Records CDs & Spiderbite Records Vinyl LPs & Digital!! Its power pop with some rocking guitars and sharp lyrics from Indonesian Junks songsmith Daniel James, for added inspiration they’ve recruited the awesome friend and member of the family, the one and only Kurt Baker who brings some additional vocals.
It’s got a great hook and chartable melody yet from these glam-punks, who have now added a fourth member. Guitarist Adam Turetzky gives it some welly on ‘One More Try’.
If there was such a thing as decent chart music this would be it. You know the drill it’s Indonesian Junk they write great tunes and this is another one and a brief taster of what’s to come on the new album and it’s on Rum Bar Records what else do you need to know. Gedoutta here and check it out.
Killer Ken – ‘Sonic Love’ / ‘Narrow Mind’ (Pig Baby Records) Wow! Love this bad boy, this is the sleaziest, dirtiest slice of protopunk I’ve heard in a long long time. They’ve obviously done a deal with the devil and summoned up the soul of The Stooges and MC5 and thrown it in the pot with some fucked up blues and beautifully chaotic Rock n Roll added a dash of The Cramps for good measure and Kerpow! ‘Sonic Love’ and the epic Dolls strut ‘n’ stomp of ‘Narrow Mind’, It come flying outta the speakers to steal your heart away and stomp you in the trash for good measure. It’s a real blast and a pair of tracks that we fuckin’ love, after some diggin’ off the back of their first EP, these cats and The Cavemen are injecting some excitement back into the Garage Punk Rock n Roll sound. It’s off the wall and sonically awesome – Buy this record or forever miss the boat. Bandcamp / Facebook
Eddie Mooney & The Grave – ‘Telephones’ (still-unbeatable-records) ‘Telephones’ has just been released digitally at the start of this month. Later this year there will also be a vinyl release together with another unreleased track from 1979. This one has been buried since the late ’70s and is a snappy melodic slice of power pop from Manchesters Eddie Mooney.
KOMBI KILLERS – ‘Don’t Start’ (Riot Records) Brisbane’s Old School Punk Rockers KOMBI KILLERS are set to release their new single Don’t Start via Riot Records on February 22nd. It is a classic punk anthem that delivers just the right amount of original old school punk attitude that will no doubt satisfy the most rabid Punk fan. Influences of Anit-Nowere League, Sex Pistols, GBH and The Misfitsecho throughout the track. With the Whealdstone Raider offering up the intro there’s only one place this quick steppin punk anthem is going. Shouty in yer face punk rock ave it!
Don’t Start – When everyday life gets in the way ‘Don’t Start!’
Pre-order/save Don’t Start HERE
Johny Skullknuckles – ‘Happier Days’ (self Release) A dreamy acoustic number as some ode to lockdown after lockdown and the inept Government that tried to be populist over saving lives and Skullknuckles hits the nail on the head. Sad but true and another essential song for you to invest in from the talented Johny Skullknuckles. Pick it up Here
Slander Tongue – ‘Ride’ (Slovenly Records) Berlin’s greasy glam stompers SLANDER TONGUE reenter the frey with a stonking 7″ of rock’n’roll with loud guitars and a great groove (not a million miles away from a certain mr Gilespie and his Primal Scream dish up).
It’s unfortunate that 2021’s first fist-shaking anthem has to be about screaming at one’s own walls, but here we are: “Now it’s May and I should be far away, But I do the same thing as yesterday, This shit goes all year long, And I keep playing that song.“ At least they managed to squeeze these two bangers out while stuck at home, and fortunately not stuck in a rut! Pick it up Here
Rest Easy – ‘Sick Day EP’ (Mutant League Records)Rest Easy is a newly formed punk rock band from Vancouver, consisting of members of Daggermouth and Shook Ones. This here four-track is rapid in your face punk rock. It’s got that thumping snare snap with the clicky bass and they’re fond of the in yer face screaming melodic vocals. The songs are short sharp and to the point. there isn’t really time for solos as such and all four tunes are over before you can get too comfortable. Decent effort especially when played loud! Remind me of Taking back Sunday at times Try the video for ‘Bad Idea’ which as it goes is a top video and the more I hear the songs the more I enjoyed them.
Governess are a sleazy bunch of sexy sailors playing a glunky blend of all action rock n’ roll that would bring a tear of pride to the guy lined eyes of Johnny Thunders and Happy Tom. Hailing from Buffalo, NY in the late great USA, Governess share the balls of their mid-west neighbours and the guts of their NYC cousins. We had a word with guitar player Handsome Erik, an all American guy with an unhealthy love for UK 90’s indie bands.
Compete the following sentence “Governess sound like a cross between………..”
A cross between deathpunk, glam, and Scandi/action rock. Big riffs, flamboyant swagger, sick guitars, and one hand gripping your crotch. Our influences include Hanoi Rocks, NY Dolls, Turbonegro, The Hellacopters, and the Dead Boys, to name a few, and I think that comes out in our musical style.
It’s been 4 years single the debut album “Let Me Be Your Governess”. What have you guys been up to????
Writing songs, and hitting the road, mostly. Getting out there, grinding, playing shows has always been at the forefront of our minds. We didn’t really want four years to pass before putting out another record; it just kind of worked out that way. The luxury of taking that time gave us a lot of material to choose from – the best we have from the last four years!
You’ve just unleashed new tune “Grime Time” what’s the response been like?
Oh man, the response has been great! Choosing the first single is a tricky thing. We wanted to put a song out that gives the audience an idea of what the record sounds like, but we didn’t want to blow our load early and use the strongest tune(s). I think we made the right decision; the song rips, and there’s still plenty of gems on the record. Every lyric in that song is true, by the way. It’s about our best bud, and 6th Governess – “Grime Time,” Matt. Without blowing his head up too much, he’s become some sort of quasi-fabled legend. He travels with us, partying his ass off the whole time. Once he learned that we wrote a song about him, shit really popped off!
What can the world expect from the new album “Never Coming Home”?
Never Coming Home sounds HUGE. Don’t expect some weak-ass, lo-fi, art-punk crap that was recorded on an old mixtape, or something. There’s a lot of guitars, a lot of sing-a-longs, cool lyrics, and upbeat songs. No snoozers. It’s dark, it’s fast, and it’s loud. In a lot of ways, we feel like Let Me Be Your Governess was kind of like our Ass Cobra, and this new one is our Apocalypse Dudes moment. The band has evolved so much in four years.
Have you got a label lined up or will you set up your own label to get it out there?
We are currently doing everything ourselves, but we are definitely looking to shop this around and get label support.
What’s your plan, post-pandemic battle plan?
Staying in lock-down has everyone really dying to get out play shows. Once we’re able to do that again, we’ll be pounding the pavement hard. This pent up energy is going to make for some wild times ahead! We’re trying to get this record released, in physical form, by the end of the year/early 2021. We haven’t discussed an early digital release, but that’s a possibility as well.
Are there still any great undiscovered bands out there? Give your mates’ bands a push.
Absolutely! Punk’s not dead, it’s just down on the floor… Through the years, we’ve met some great bands, and have made some great friends. Without a doubt, the best band in our scene is Hot Blood, from Asbury Park, New Jersey. If you’re into hardcore punk, there’s no one doing it better. They have two guitar players that shred, their lyrics are on point, and their hooks are strong as fuck. In early 2019 they put out Fear of a Unified Public, and we’re still all talking about it! Another great Asbury band (now in Los Angeles) is The Battery Electric. These beautiful babies are the hardest working band in the business. 100% rock n roll, sweet hooks, and another Jersey guitar shredder! I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Rotten UK (Rochester, NY) and the Cheats (Pittsburgh, PA). Both bands are incredible and should be way bigger than they are. I hear the Hot Blood guys a Rotten boys don’t get along, though….
What five albums should no home be without?
I find it curious that you’re asking for five records, and it just so happens that those first five Oasis releases are pure fire! Coincidence??? For real though, my favorite bands/records change on a daily basis, depending on my mood, or what Kinks record I’m listening to at the moment, so this is a tough question. How about I tell you the five records that are getting the most spins in the Handsome household?
Greater Than Ever, by Baseball Furies – Buffalo punk legends. I discovered this record about two years ago, and its been in regular rotation since. I’m mad at myself for not discovering it sooner.
Off the Rails, by Gino and the Goons – I just discovered these guys too! Their entire catalog is great. I thought I was a huge Heartbreakers fan; these guys really love them, L U V!
Funhouse, by The Stooges – This record blows me away. It’s so loud, raw, and loose. Plus Ron Asheton is fucking MENTAL!!
Crystal Gazing Luck Amazing, by Compulsive Gamblers – I love that 60s vibe. The singer has a sweet voice, and that song Two Thieves always makes me want to cry. I DON’T THOUGH!!!!!
Algorithm & Blues, by The Good, the Bad, and the Zugly – Jesus Christ! What can I say? Its not only the best record of 2019, but it’s going in the Deathpunk Hall of Fame.
Governess are –
Robot Rob: Vocals & Bass
Handsome Erik: Lead Guitar
Fast Teddy Clarke: Lead Guitar
Jon Swayze: Rhythm Guitar
Matty Wild: Drums
How could we not give this banger some time all on its own? The answer is simple we couldn’t so here it is in its whole gory glory the brand new video from The Good The Bad And The Zugly and the man behiond the (Oxygen) Mask
If you want more then how about some Bombpops? Here they are with a track taken from the brand new album ‘Death In Venice Beach’ and the lead track ‘Notre Dame’
It’s always a good day when The Zuglys drop a new record of any description. A bunch of Oslo natives kicking out the jams on their terms – dancing only to their own tune GBZ as we like to call them, are a force of nature and you need to let them into your life it must be pretty empty without them, that’s all I can assume? Besides I’m declaring right here right now that this is the finest Deathpunk album since ’98s ‘Apocalypse Dudes’ which is quite some gap.
Album number four (or five if you include the compilation of early releases) it would be fair to say that Zugly are one of the best-kept secrets in all of punk rock land. How? Fuck knows is often a few words we use to describe the phenomena or just that people generally haven’t got a clue what’s good for them. Over the next few paragraphs, I’m hoping to either put you off music for life or help persuade you to click the red words below and go investigate this band of maverick noisemakers.
Right, let’s do this. ‘Algorithm & Blues’ contains thirteen songs of varying levels of intensity mostly stressful full-on in your face punk rock Oslo style without compromise or a hint of wanting to conform to reach a wide audience of nodding dogs who wouldn’t know a good tune from a puddle of piss. The opening track is ‘Welcome To The Great Indoors’ which is nice. It begins with some Angus like scales working out up the fretboard before the rhythm section joins in building up to the crunch point then bosch! We’re off as the guitars pin you to the back of your seat and we’re careering downhill at a frantic rate of knots. Fuck this is how to kick off your album. Ivar Nikolaisen leads the charge with his uncompromising vocals and what a thrilling four minutes that was.
Forget Turbonegro and Kvelertak this is how to rock out 2020 style. this is where the bar gets set, these are the leaders and others will just have to follow, simples. ‘Fake Noose’ is intense and has a really haunting melody through the vocals it’s like audio crack it’s that addictive but then when you tackle the subject of elected dying and going to Switzerland to do it its gotta be a little intense right?. The quality charge continues as ‘Staying With The Trouble’ is up next with its triumphant guitars and pop-savvy melody on those backing vocals its a lighter side of The Zuglys for sure. Have they finally decided to sell a little of their soul for success and chart acceptance?
After the slight interlude of ‘Follow Your Dreams’ were right back at it hammering away on ‘Kings Of Inconvenience’. ‘The Man Behind The (Oxygene) Mask’ is the Zuglys on top of their game it’s bold, it’s grand, it’s epic. It gallops from the off (no great shock there to be fair) but the melodies happening are fantastic and the more you play these songs the more things jump out you didn’t notice on the last play and this song is one of the best examples of that. Remember what you thought when you first heard Turbo knock out ‘Apocolpse Dudes’ well, this is like that.
‘Fuck Life…But How To Live It’ is hardcore heaven. Uncompromising and just full of boundless energy like the Beastie Boys tackling early Black Flag. The second single off the album ‘Corporate Rock’ is anything but. Hounding out fake bands with a huge riff that belted out like a 30lb hammer landing on your temple. I’m standing firm behind these boys they know the score!
‘The Kids Are Alt-Right’ is tackling the hot potato of today’s global politics but I hope they’re wrong on this one I hope that Hope Not Hate prevails and the Kids are alright and our children don’t head down a wormhole of Trump and tory hate for anyone and everything except money and not 90% are nihilists. C’mon Oslo’s finest offer us some hope? whilst there is a darkness I have to believe the kids are generally all right.
Blimey, for some light relief from the last one ‘Fuck The Police’ raises the alarm, Doh! bollocks lets go with them. Use the intro to inhale then prepare to enter the pit as the intensity escalates. “Fuck, Fuck Fuck the Police” if you can’t beat them join them. That my friends is pretty much where we get off this trip except for ‘Requiem’ and its one last hurrah! Rounding off an absolute belter to kick-off 2020. The Good The Bad And The Zugly are everything you want them to be they make you think, Smile, Laugh, break things, give yourself over to the noise they make, be grateful you have them in your life and you also have impeccable taste in hardcore punk rock and roll Oslo style.
As they said it themselves on this record “Don’t tell me that the sky is the limit when there are footprints on the moon” Go The Zuglys I’m rootin’ for you to break on through. Let’s make this go overground! Just go Buy it! it’s because you’re worth it!
Ok, so the title is a lyric from a U2 song about October but thats the closest Dublins favourite son is gonna get to RPM singles club and to be fair he wouldn’t stand a chance with some of this months singles. from multi-platinum recording artists to some of our favourites paying homage to the gods of Metal none the less its another mixed bag of genres but the standard is the usual high bar we like to set. So without further waffle lets plug the jukebox in and do us all a favour…
Down N Outz – This Is How We Roll (UMC) An uptempo rock and rolla from Joe and the boys sees some neat riffola on the verses courtesy of The Quireboys’ Paul Guerin and Guy Griffin. The band are nicely rounded off by Keith Weir (keyboards), Share Ross (Bass, ex Vixen) and Phil Martini (drums, Wayward Sons) Its the first track taken from the album of the same title and it doesn’t really sound too similar to any of the associated bands and is more in tune with Elliott’s love of ’70s glam rock and Mott The Hoople which is never going to be a bad thing. Buy Here
The Drowns – Hold Fast (Pirates Press) Heres the technical piece – this 12“ one-sided record will leave just about any vinyl collector speechless. On first inspection, this may seem like it’s a picture disc, but it’s not! As the leaves in the wreath are actually transparent! This one-sided record is actually digitally printed on the non-groove side, with two separate passes through the machine, creating one very cool (and very limited!) brand new style of 12“ – pressed on real vinyl, sounding great, unlike actual picture discs.
The possibilities are endless for creating eye-catching and powerful releases using this new method of digitally printing on records… pairing this brand new format with a band garnering so much praise and generating so much excitement right now is the perfect fit; and best way to spread the word about both things, fast! Right, got that? Wow it looks cool I’m sure you’ll agree but its no good if its joust going to be a wall hanger but The Drowns Hold Fast is a fuckin’ blinding slice of uplifting punk rock. The video for Hold Fast is below so you can check it out for yourself bu t’Demons’ is gang vocals and air pumping fist raised anthems and if this is a sample of what’s to come then the album is going to be something special.
Prohibition Dead – ‘Let Me Live Or Die’ (Why A Bassist Production) Clearly influenced by Queens Of The Stone Age this French two-piece make enough noise for a whole traditional four-piece band – its catchy has a solid foundation and will appeal to a lot of Jack White fans as well as the more grungy types. Its the second track off their soon to be released EP set for November. Its a decent loud slice of Fuzzy alt-rock so if that’s yer bag and you are partial to some Black Keys and QOTSA then fill yer boots this will please ya. Buy ‘Let Me Live Or Die’ Here
The Hip Priests / Spaceforce – Split (Speedowax) With shit island heading for implosion and the last 45 round-up not having a Hip Priests single included I was beginning to give up hope and was thinking whats the chuffin point then this bad boy turns up. With the finest sleeve to date, it was down to the boyz makin all the noiz to offer up a reason for continuing and they not only give us one track but two and drag along Spaceforce with one for good measure. ‘My Damnation’ and ‘Play It Loud’ are not so much passable little ditties but the latter is a fuckin’ order Play it loud is like Iggy and Ron joining Biff and the boys and kicking out the jams. ‘Play It Loud’ In your neighborhood! too damn right. as for ‘My Damnation’ its total potty mouth and like a heavyweight boxer punching you on the sly right below the belt love the bridge BVs and the solo rips (of course it does). It never gets boring saying it but they simply have no peers in the 45s stakes and there isn’t anyone making records as consistently good as these reprobates.
As for Spaceforce it’s a thankless task really but they hammer away like Maiden when DiAnno was da man (and when they had something to say) on ‘Ignition’ and their take on the Venom classic ‘Black Metal’ has my respect, you gentlemen, are all Hellbound. Black metal and little green men? I fuckin love this shit? Stonker of a single and the artwork is pure fuckin genius. Single of the month and might well be single of the year! How’s that!
BATS – The Call Of Cthulhu (Self Release) With the forthcoming release of their third studio album ‘ALTER NATURE’, this is the first video off the record. A dark as fuck take to be fair noisy, yup we like noisy. Messed up – yup again we like messed up. Twisted, ok you get the picture. It’s their first piece of new music in seven years. I’m still trying to work it out = nutters’.
The Empty Page – ‘You’re Tame'(Punk Fox records) Cats! but wait before we get carried away with the fluffy creatures we do need to tell you this single is available digitally everywhere and also on limited edition splatter 7″ vinyl from Rough Trade and other select indie record stores. The band stated it was an unashamed slice of 90s alt rock in the vein of Veruca Salt or Hole and we say theres nothing to be ashamed of there guys it might indeed have that retro outsider feel to it and the video is rather Terry Christian The Word about it but thats cool. Don’t smother your wild side you Empty Pages just keep being you doing what you do and when it’s as good as this and the previous singles then we’ll keep listening and telling others to follow suit. Do it and aren’t they cuddly? and those cats! (*No musicians were harmed in the making of this video) it’ll be on limited splatter vinyl and have the previous single on the flip side. Cool as.
oso oso “Basking In The Glow” (Counter-Intuitive Records) About to embark on his first UK tour here’s our introduction to Oso Oso with a great piece of guitar pop – power pop if you like it’s catchy and full of that raw guitar-driven pop not a million miles from some of the stuff Butch Walker puts out hows that for a none too shabby name check? . Check it out via the medium of video and just in case you’re curious here are the tour dates for this week coming around England – Oct 16 MARGATE, Elsewhere, Oct 17 BRIGHTON, Green Door Store, Oct 18 MANCHESTER, Deaf Institute, Oct 19 LEEDS, The Key Club, Oct 20 GLASGOW, The Hug & Pint, Oct 22 BIRMINGHAM, Sunflower Lounge, Oct 23 NOTTINGHAM, The Bodega,
Oct 24 LONDON, Boston Music Room, and Oct 25 BRISTOL, Louisiana All tickets are on sale now HERE
Mono In Stereo – ‘Different Kind Of Man’ (Rum Bar Records) Taken from their second album ‘Can’t Stop The Bleeding’ this uplifting honest slice of Heartland rock n roll with attitude it’s infectious like a bit of Springsteen if he recorded after a night on the dark fruits and a fistfight. Great rock n roll is always a good place to be and these cats nail it.
45 Rally – Tweets For My Sweet (Rum Bar Records) Tank tops and ties. Ok, its a first but we’re a broad church. 45 Rally are swinging their pants for sure it’s like some hip house party house band from the swinging ’60s with authentic tambourine backbeat sloppy backing vocals and awesome keyboards. ‘Bigly’ is up first and don’t take too long settling down or you’ll miss it. Like the Fuzztones chirpy brother theres nothing dark here it’s bubblegum garage done very well indeed and all the song titles come from Trump tweets! could have covered an album full from that bulb but an EP will do for starters Garage Rock from Switzerland who’d have thought it?
The Urban Voodoo Machine – Johnny Foreigner (Gypsy Hotel Records) Taken from the compilation album, ‘The Urban Voodoo Machine’s Friends And Family Album Vol 1’ it’s the band’s riposte to the xenophobia and rise in the UK of all things English nationalism and a rise by right-wing extremists that’s indeed been stinking up the place since Brexshit. We love ya Paul-Ronney Angel and of course you can stay, our home is your home, we don’t own this shit island. The Urban Voodoo Machine are as magnificent as ever with their sleazy booze-soaked bop n stroll and yet another must-have track gets added to their repertoire. Facebook
Dirty Sound Magnet – Skull Drawing Rose (Hummus Records) Swiss Psychedelic Rockers Dirty Sound Magnet the latest single from the Album due this week ‘Transgenic’ it isn’t even the longest single we’ve ever had on the 45rpm round-up that title goes to those pesky Hip Priests but this is the first psychedelic progressive Hard Rock song we’ve had entered our charts. Go fill yer boots ya pixie loving flute wielding prog rats.
The Crookeds – Sucker For Pain (Golden Robot Records) Some classic rock leanings add yet more textures to this month’s 45 RPM round up. Australian rockers The Crookeds bring their riff laden rock to the club where they mix up some alt rock with a more classic rock sound. With loud guitars and a Buckley esk soaring vocal. check it out rockers!
Lazybones – Trash Talk (Say Something Records) Inspired by the likes of Black Sabbath, Sex Pistols and Chas & Dave, using a fuzzy bass guitar, an amplified organ and drums, Lazybones create a trashy, unapologetic, to-the-point British sound. and ‘Trash Talk’ is a loud and unapologetic romp. All the way to the chorus its a bumpy ride but when you get there it’s like screaming on top of a mountain like PJ Harvey riding a rocket. You can stream this along with other Lazybones songs on Spotify the band head out around the UK later this month and early next to bosh gig goers over the head with their fuzzed up alt pop – check em out. Here – WebsiteFacebookTwitterInstagram
A Bunch OF Jerks – Dirt Nap (Rum Bar Records) The first track off their second album has the neat lead single ‘Dirt Nap’ – A snotty spikey slice of Garage punk. Where the gang vocals are young, loud and snotty and they mix up some B52s with a raw punk rock old school. It’s in yer face and will follow you around all night as you find your self shouting “Dirt Nap” at random intervals. This Boston awesome foursome come armed with a full-length (ooh er Mrs.) album where ‘Dirt Nap’ is lifted from and if this is anything to go by we’ll be all over some more of that. Check it out ya punks! Besides they had a song called ’70s Euro Minge’ for fuck’s sake what’s not to like. They obviously have all the right credentials Facebook
The Good The Bad And The Zugly – Staying With the Trouble ( Fysisk Format) What nice guys GBZ are. Offering to hold ones hand whilst we navigate these troubled times. Always great to hear what these loons are up to and they’ve not made a bad record yet. With this being the first peek at what’s to come on the new album ‘Algorithm & Blues’ it sounds a little restrained if I’m honest (in a good way obviously) Its anthemic and will make for a wonderful experience live I’m sure of that. Norway is delivering some fantastic bands and music at the minute and These bad boys are at the top of the pile now get your ears around this and pre-order the album because they’re touring early next year. I’m staying with the trouble and they can hold my hand any day. Facebook
Territories – Quit This City/Defender (Pirates Press Records) Wow, what a stunner this is to wrap up this singles Club. Hailing from Calgary and following on from their debut long-player last summer these two songs just blew me away. Its heartfelt chest-beating punk rock these longtime friends have been cutting their teeth for quite a while around Western Canada and since that debut album they’ve been building up a head of steam to this point and from the quiet intro of electric guitar and voice we then break out and deliver a stunning rousing single in ‘Quit This City’.
As the band gear up for their first jaunt to play Rock The Boat this will more than confirm their qualities and worthy place for being on that ship and kicking ass. I hope it won’t be a case of man overboard as the audience won’t be able to stay still when this erupts. The B side might be more solid paced with its thumping, driving bass line its so good I couldn’t resist digging into the bands back catalogue. Exciting times ahead. Go check em out and tell em RPM sent ya! Facebook
With 2018 in its last throws RPM thought it would be a good idea to have a quick glance over its collective shoulder at a blur that was 2018. It was choc full of albums – singles – concerts and the odd loss and break up. We spent the end of November telling each other no that was never this year or wasn’t that out in 2017 or in some cases the wrong decade 😉
We’ve only been in existence a short number of months and already we’ve racked up a heap of albums reviewed and there are plenty from earlier this year that we’d covered elsewhere on the web so cast your minds back eleven months and January as we look at the early movers and shakers in a notoriously slow month as the year finds its feet.
January 2018.
One of the first engagements I had in 2018 was a date at the 100 club for the Resolution Festival appearance of the mighty Boys who would be supported that memorable night by four should know better upstarts from North of the border Heavy Drapes with their enigmatic frontman Garry. To say I was blown away that night would be something of an understatement as the band knocked out a whole set of memorable tunes and The Vulz.
Elsewhere RPM scribes caught their first sighting of The Hip Priests as a five-piece when they visited Le Pub in Newport but that wasn’t before they caught former Misfit Michael Graves doing his thang in Cardiff on the live front.
As far as a slow-burning month goes it would appear that that is a load of old bollocks as this January looks like its kicking off with a few right bangers as Amyl & The Sniffers released their EP’s on one glorious longish player in the shape of ‘Big Attraction/Giddy UP’ who despite being bigged up by the media were determined to warrant the tag and deliver the goods on record. This Australian mullet sporting punk rock group certainly set the pace.
Other recommendations from the opening month were Doll Hazard with their Transatlantic Meltdown. Which Ben recommended after hearing the Dirtbag Republic and Suicide Bomber players join forces to pen a sleazy bag of Rock and Roll tunes
Also in January, we had some dirty filthy treats from a couple of garage punk rock n roll bands that like nothing more than making a rather splendid racket first up the awesome The Good The Bad And The Zugly with their Misanthropic House album that got Fraser all hot and bothered and rightly so. We love TGTBATZ around here and they are to feature later in the year with their fantastic video to their new single but more of that laters. Don’t think its all about Scandinavianian punk either as London town delivers the goods with the new kids on the block (who said new kids?) Flash House who’ve been kicking around for a while actually settled down to release their mighty fine album full of noise in the shape of ‘Brown Sauce’ as it came barking out of the traps rattling speakers cones all over the shop. I’m not sure about Brown Sauce but played loud enough I think it might be what scientists call Brown Noise such is the bass rumble involved in this bad boy. Even though it came out at the final knockings of 2017 I didn’t get my mitts on it until January.
Sadly January saw the passing of a real enigma in British Rock N Roll as Mark E Smith lost his battle with lung cancer and the alternative scene lost one of its most prolific writers and performers. Releasing 32 studio albums and many singles during his time on earth. As leader of the Fall he probably went through twice as many bandmates as records released with him being the only constant in what was a turbulent and often antagonistic life Smith was certainly unique. But January passed and it took the third and final member of Motorhead on January 10th. Edward Allan Clarke – or as we all know and love him “Fast” Eddie Clarke – passed away peacefully after contracting Pneumonia. Clarke left Motorhead in ’82 but he will forever be associated with the band and the classic riff that was ‘Ace Of Spades’ RIP both and take it easy.
January album of the month would probably have to go to The Good The Bad And The Zugly which is a pretty decent way to kick off any year I’m sure you’ll agree. Roll on Foulmouthed February…
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